Operators 'may need to innovate in 2013'

08 | 01 | 13

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Restaurateurs can remain profitable in 2013, but they may have to be a bit more creative.

According to food service consultancy Horizons' annual review, eating establishments need a unique selling point in order to keep the punters coming through the door.

The organisation suggested that 2012 was an extremely challenging year for the industry as a whole and although there are signs that people will spend more on eating out this year, competition in the restaurant business will still be intense.

Money is tight for a lot of households and diners are far more selective about where and what they eat.

With this in mind, it is fair to suggest that the most successful businesses in 2013 will be those that use their restaurant equipment in the most creative ways.

Whether they choose to overhaul their menu or introduce some enticing offers, eating establishments need to do something that makes them stand out.

Horizons managing director Peter Backman said the industry has changed in recent years and companies have had to adapt in order to survive.

"The last few years have demonstrated that the majority of strong businesses survive," he remarked.

"Some sort of bottom has now been reached or will be in early 2013. At some point during 2013 we expect consumer confidence to start returning and spend on eating out will start to rise again.”

Mr Backman added that restaurants will introduce vouchers and other deals this year, while also focusing on striking a balance between quantity and quality.

With more and more people looking for value for money, he envisages a strong year for outlets that specialise in all-you-can-eat buffets.

One thing is for sure, companies that are well prepared in the kitchen stand a better chance of succeeding than those that rely on out-of-date machinery and equipment.

Radford Chancellor of consultant firm Radford Chancellor recently wrote in Catering Insight that for every fantastic kitchen he sees, he comes across an "horrendous" one too. ADNFCR-16001031-ID-801518648-ADNFCR

Operators 'may need to innovate in 2013'

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